Street Photography: 2014 Chicago Marathon

October 13, 2014

As a photographer, there’s an unspoken tension between waiting and reacting — especially at an event like the Chicago Marathon. In 2014, I walked the course capturing those spontaneous, unguarded moments that tell deeper stories than any finish line could. (Three years after completing it myself.)

What you’ll see below are fragments of effort, joy, persistence, and connection — the intangible rhythms that make the marathon more than a race.

A neighbor walking home through Dearborn Park

The post-run solitude

I think he’s earned some loiter time!

High Fives from strangers

Finding family and friends can be tough after the race.

Recovery is a priority for all – especially the fast runners.

Hugs of congratulations

It’s great to have support

Proud of their mom!

Summer Concerts : Cabernet Cabaret

August 5, 2014

Summer concerts are much more than just Lollapalooza. Smaller local events like Arranmore Arts’ Cabernet Cabaret offer a beautiful setting, a friendly audience, and a great evening of family-friendly music and dancing.

It’s a one time show with a fun theme and you can bring your own party complete with food and drinks. For this particular show titled, “Midsummer Night’s Dance Party,” former American Idol contestant, Reed Grimm, serenaded an audience member by surprise just as the night was getting started.

Be sure to check the Cabernet Cabaret schedule if you’re in the Chicago area – see you there!

Chicago Air & Water Show

August 18, 2012

I thought I would share the perspective that many Chicagoans (and visitors) enjoy during the Air & Water Show weekend. Even if you aren’t at the center of action at North Avenue Beach, you can still enjoy the show from a distance. These photos are from the Museum Campus perspective.

Street Level-palooza

August 5, 2012

I went for a walk this evening with the intent of using my Polaroid to capture a typical Chicago scene. And I did – easily accomplished at Cloud Gate in Millennium Park.

After meeting this cute couple, I figured it was time to head home.

But with Lollapalooza in town this weekend, it was hard to ignore the masses. So I walked south on Michigan Avenue to see what things were like from the street during this massive music event.

Sometimes, you have to work the event from the gate.

Many pedicabs to cart attendees around the city.

No ticket? Just listen from afar.

Photo Shoot : Moondog J at Villain’s

July 22, 2012

Moondog J is a blues guitarist and vocalist from Australia with a great feel for the style. These photos are from his performance accompanied by drums at Villain’s Bar and Grill in Chicago on Saturday July 21, 2012.

You can catch him for a farewell Chicago performance at Phil McKracken’s in Street Worth, IL on Saturday, August 4. Very nice to meet him and friends at Villain’s! Learn more at www.moondogj.com

Taste of Chicagography

July 14, 2012

The annual Taste of Chicago took over Grant Park this weekend and this afternoon, I set out to grab some dinner. It was my intent to make my path directly to Lou Malnati’s for a slice of particularly excellent deep dish, but I was distracted just before the entrance.

Meet Andre

Not only is Andre a really nice guy, he caught my eye because he was holding a Polaroid 600 SE. This is a fully manual camera that can take absolutely beautiful pictures. The SE comes with a 127mm lens (which Andre is using) but can also be fitted with a portrait (150mm) and wide-angle (75mm) lens.

Andre was visiting Chicago from Detroit and if he (or his buddy!) are reading, I would love to see your beautiful work!

Then I made my way into the festival where food was constantly walking by…with people attached to it.

Crowded, hot, wonderful summer day in Chicago.

I grabbed a slice of Lou Malnati’s just as a light shower passed and saw another photographer setting up in North President’s Court with President Lincoln overlooking.

Meet Jeremy

Jeremy was setting up a project using a medium format camera. If you aren’t familiar, medium format refers to film and digital cameras that record images on media larger than 24 by 36 mm full-frame (standard photography format), but smaller than 4 by 5 inches which is considered large-format photography.

I hope to meet up with Jeremy again to see his finished work. I’m sure President Lincoln will approve.

After my own dinner time, I made my way over to Buckingham Fountain (a favorite spot) and took a photo for this beautiful couple!

And a large family!

Then I obtained one of my favorite things. It’s an Original Rainbow Cone, which is not only beautiful, it’s delicious. It also has a long Chicago history beginning in 1926 and constructed with chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House cherry, pistachio and orange sherbet. Sounds crazy, but the combination is surprisingly delicious.

Size doesn’t matter!

Illinois Lottery ladies having fun!

Officers can smile, too.

It was a great afternoon and I hope to continue meeting Chicago visitors (and photographers)!

Printers Row Lit Fest 2012

June 10, 2012

One of my favorite Chicago events is the Printers Row Lit Fest which happens right outside my apartment building. I enjoy everything from the setup on the weekdays before to the music and events that happen all through the weekend. It is considered the largest free outdoor literary event in the Midwest.

One highlight for me was listening to Chicago Tribune photographer, Scott Strazzante, share his stories about Chicago events and street photography. Be sure to read his blog “Shooting from the Hip.”

Justin Roberts & The Not Ready for Naptime Players in Lil’ Lit Park was the musical highlight – entertaining both parents and children Saturday and Sunday.